Martwick stands in support of public safety package that addresses law enforcement needs

Springfield -  A legislative package intending to provide greater support for  law enforcement agencies ranging from mental health support, to hiring and retaining officers and the purchase of body cameras was unveiled at a press conference Monday with strong support from State Senator Robert Martwick (D-Chicago). 

“I am proud to join my colleagues in support of this legislative package to show that we are working to address the practical concerns of law enforcement agencies across the state,” Martwick said. “From clarifying when officers can use body cameras to getting more support for mental health issues in jails and helping local agencies recruit more highly qualified officers, Illinois is continuing to show up for our hardworking officers.” 

House Bill 3863 creates the Law Enforcement Recruitment and Retention Fund to help law enforcement agencies hire and retain qualified law enforcement officers.

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Senate and House Dems Highlight Pro-Law Enforcement Package

SPRINGFIELD – Senate and House Democrats announced a series of proposals aimed at helping law enforcement – including mental health support, pay increases, retention incentives, retirement assistance, day care help and other benefits.

“Every minute of every day, police men and women work to protect us. They catch criminals, break down their networks, and ensure justice is served against those who violate law and order in our neighborhoods,” said State Senator Rachelle Crowe (D-Glen Garbon). “Our brave members of law enforcement show up for us, and Illinois is continuing to show up for them by creating new grant opportunities, retaining quality officers, offering investigative resources and more.”

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Holmes: ‘Pay It Forward Plan’ tax relief proposal is a win for Illinois teachers

SPRINGFIELD – Senate Majority Leader Linda Holmes (D-Aurora) was proud to stand with her colleagues Friday to present elements of a new tax relief plan, including a proposal to pay back some of Illinois teachers’ personal spending on classroom supplies for students.

“Educators need our support for the extra efforts they make at their own expense,” Holmes said. “Many children would go without necessary supplies, but they cannot get the full benefit of education without all the needed tools. It’s time we pay back what is owed to teachers.”

Holmes’ enthusiasm for the full plan, ‘Pay It Forward Plan,’ is also based on direct relief checks for each taxpayer, a property tax relief check, grocery and gas tax relief, and a shopping savings initiative with a sales tax break period at back-to-school time.

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Illinois Senate Democrats wear Blue for Child Abuse Prevention Month

Members of the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus wore blue on the first day of April to raise awareness for Child Abuse Prevention Month.

Last year over 43,000 children were indicated as having been abused or neglected in Illinois. By wearing a blue ribbon pin and the color blue, Illinois Senate Democrats helped bring recognition to child abuse survivors and honored those who tragically died due to abuse and neglect.

The month of April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. This is an initiative that seeks to recognizes the importance of families and communities working together to strengthen families to prevent child abuse and neglect. Through collaboration, prevention services and support, Illinois can protect children and produce thriving families.

Read more: Illinois Senate Democrats wear Blue for Child Abuse Prevention Month